Russia`s Ambassador in Nicosia Stanislav Osadchiy said on Wednesday that the presence of the members of the UN Security Council in efforts for the Cyprus problem would be beneficial.

Osadchiy was briefed by President Nicos Anastasiades on the latest developments in the Cyprus problem and the prospects, during a meeting they had at the Presidential Palace.

In statements to the press, the ambassador reiterated that Russia supports a Cyprus settlement as quickly as possible.

Invited to comment on recent reports in the press about Russia`s role in the Cyprus problem, he said that it is very well known that Russia wants a solution of the problem and that “we are ready to support the two sides in these efforts, we are by your side”.

The ambassador refrained, when asked by the press, from commenting on the objectives of the reports, which suggested that Moscow is not too keen on a political settlement in Cyprus.

He said that during the meeting, the President expressed his full trust in him.

Asked whether the members of the Security Council should be present at a new Conference on Cyprus, Osadchiy said that “it would be beneficial if the members of the Security Council were to take part in these efforts” but, he noted, this depends on the two sides. “We understand that we cannot overcome these difficulties as well,” he added.

Cyprus has been divided since 1974, when Turkish troops invaded and occupied 37% of its territory. President Anastasiades and Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akinci have been engaged in UN-led negotiations since May 2015, with a view to reunite the island under a federal roof.
source: CNA